Critically endangered gorilla born at Ohio Zoo

POWELL, Ohio ( WCMH ) — The birth of a baby western lowland gorilla is being celebrated at the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium .

In a news release, the zoo announced the gorilla was born on Saturday, June 29, in the early morning hours. The sex of the baby has not been determined yet, to allow it uninterrupted bonding time with its mother.

The zoo revealed the infant was born to mother Sue and father Ktembe. This is the first baby for Sue, a 19-year-old who arrived in Columbus in 2014 via the Lincoln Park Zoo. Ktembe, 27, has been in Columbus for six years and is an “experienced” father, according to the zoo. The pair’s baby is the 35th gorilla born at the Columbus Zoo.

Their pairing was recommended by the Species Survival Plan, which is a program by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums designed to maintain the genetic diversity of threatened and endangered species, according to CBS

“For months, our care team has been busy preparing for the baby’s arrival, and we are thrilled that the time has finally come to welcome this important new addition,” said Audra Meinelt, the Columbus Zoo’s Congo Expedition region’s curator.

The animal care team reports Sue is “very attentive and providing excellent care to her little one, who she nuzzles and cradles closely.” Additionally, Sue, Ktembe and the infant share space with two 30-year-old females Nia and Cassie, and the baby’s 4-year-old half-sister Jamani, as the species is social.

“With tiny hands and beautiful big brown eyes that melt our hearts, this baby is absolutely precious—in regard to both the cuteness factor and what the baby represents for this species’ future,” said Meinelt.

Guests can see the new gorilla starting Monday, July 8, from 11 a.m. until the Zoo closes at 6 p.m. Until then, the indoor viewing habitat in the Zoo’s Congo Expedition region will be closed to provide privacy.

While the indoor viewing habitat is closed, visitors will be able to see another gorilla troop in the outdoor habitat consisting of silverback, Mac and females Kinyani, Tabibu, Mo’ana, Sully, Kamina, Zahra, and Kwame.

The Columbus Zoo made history in 1956 when Colo became the first gorilla born in professional care. Colo lived 60 years.

“We are proud of the dedication of our care teams who diligently work to provide the gorillas with top quality care and wellbeing while continuing the legacy of the Columbus Zoo’s renowned gorilla program,” said Meinelt.

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